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Mask Layout Designer Jobs in Milpitas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Digital Layout Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$144.60 - $263.80/hr

Designing complex custom layout for digital circuits in deep SubMicron CMOS technologies ... Use advanced CAD tools, mask design knowledge to layout corrections and robust physical design ...

... designers, PIC architects, process engineers, process design kit (PDK) developers, and test ... Perform physical verification of mask data to ensure design and manufacturability requirements are ...

Cadence Allegro Package Designer / APD+ / SiP, Siemens Xpedition Package Designer, Synopsys IC ... Familiarity with mask and RDL vendor flows, GDS-based layout environments (Virtuoso, KLayout), and ...

Cadence Allegro Package Designer / APD+ / SiP, Siemens Xpedition Package Designer, Synopsys IC ... Familiarity with mask and RDL vendor flows, GDS-based layout environments (Virtuoso, KLayout), and ...

Showing results 21-40

Mask Layout Designer information

See Milpitas, CA salary details

$11

$48

$117

How much do mask layout designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for mask layout designer in Milpitas, CA is $48.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $68.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mask layout designer?

Mask layout designers are professionals who create the detailed physical layouts for integrated circuits (ICs) or semiconductor devices. They translate circuit schematics into precise geometric patterns that define how components and connections will be fabricated on silicon chips. Their work involves using specialized software tools to optimize the arrangement for performance, manufacturability, and adherence to design rules. Mask layout designers play a crucial role in ensuring that electronic devices function correctly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mask layout designer?

To thrive as a Mask Layout Designer, you need a solid understanding of semiconductor physics, IC design principles, and experience with layout design rules, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with EDA tools such as Cadence Virtuoso, Mentor Graphics, or Synopsys, as well as knowledge of DRC/LVS verification processes, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective collaboration with design and verification teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure the creation of accurate, manufacturable layouts that meet stringent specifications, directly impacting chip performance and yield.

What are some common challenges faced by mask layout designers when collaborating with circuit design engineers?

One common challenge Mask Layout Designers face is translating circuit schematics into efficient and manufacturable layouts while ensuring all design rules and constraints are met. Effective communication is crucial, as discrepancies between layout and circuit intent can arise, requiring iterative feedback and close coordination with circuit design engineers. Additionally, balancing performance, area, and manufacturability often involves trade-offs, making teamwork and proactive problem-solving essential parts of the role.

What is the difference between Mask Layout Designer vs IC Design Engineer?

AspectMask Layout DesignerIC Design Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning photomask layouts for semiconductor manufacturingDesigning integrated circuit architectures and circuit components
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of mask design tools, semiconductor fabrication processesStrong circuit theory, EDA tools, and semiconductor device knowledge
Work EnvironmentSemiconductor fabrication facilities, design labsDesign offices, R&D labs, semiconductor companies
Industry UsageUsed in photomask manufacturing for chip productionUsed in chip and circuit development for various electronic devices

While both roles are integral to semiconductor development, the Mask Layout Designer focuses on creating precise photomask patterns for manufacturing, whereas the IC Design Engineer develops the overall circuit architecture and logic. Understanding these distinctions helps professionals and employers align skills and expectations in the semiconductor industry.

What are popular job titles related to Mask Layout Designer jobs in Milpitas, CA?

For Mask Layout Designer jobs in Milpitas, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mask Layout Designer jobs in Milpitas, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Mask Layout Designer jobs in Milpitas, CA are:

What cities near Milpitas, CA are hiring for Mask Layout Designer jobs?

Cities near Milpitas, CA with the most Mask Layout Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Mask Layout Designer job openings in Milpitas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,113 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Senior Mask Design Engineer - Hardware

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

NVIDIA has continuously reinvented itself over two decades. Our invention of the GPU in 1999 sparked the growth of the PC gaming market, redefined modern computer graphics, and revolutionized parallel computing. More recently, GPU deep learning ignited modern AI - the next era of computing. NVIDIA is a "learning machine" that constantly evolves by adapting to new opportunities that are hard to take on, that only we can pursue, and that matter to the world. This is our life's work, to amplify human creativity and intelligence. We would love to hear from you!

We are looking for a Senior Mask Layout Design Engineer, someone who is excited to join a growing and dynamic group of diverse individuals responsible for handling meaningful high-speed mixed-signal circuit designs.

What you'll be doing:

  • Performing physical layout for mixed-signal functions like PLL's, high speed SerDes, Analog to Digital converters, ESD structures designs in state-of-the-art sub-micron CMOS technologies using Cadence tools.

  • You'll work cross functionally with ASIC and mixed-signal engineers to customize designs for integration in VLSI products.

  • Take part in floor planning, custom layout and verifying against design rules and schematics.

What we need to see:

  • Have a BSEE or equivalent experience.

  • Minimum of 7+ years industry experience in Mask and Layout Design.

  • Deep understanding of analog circuit layout concepts in submicron CMOS technologies.

  • You are an authority with Cadence custom circuit design tools - particularly virtuoso.

  • Experience running and debugging with verification tools such as Dracula, Hercules, Calibre, and Primeyield.

  • You are able to work effectively in a team, good interpersonal skills, enthusiasm and positive energy.

  • You'll be proficient in scripting languages like perl, python, skill etc.

  • Should have knowledge of DRC and LVS checking flows, ability to customize decks.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 132,000 USD - 207,000 USD for Level 4, and 148,000 USD - 235,750 USD for Level 5.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until January 13, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US